RSPCA Assured investigates as Tesco suspends salmon supplier over welfare concerns.
Tesco has suspended sourcing from a Bakkafrost Scotland site in the north-west Highlands after allegations that sea-lice-infested salmon were left in a pen that should have been empty, according to reporting by the BBC.
Animal Equality UK said it covertly filmed the Loch Torridon site and claimed that welfare and legal regulations had been breached. The group alleged that salmon remained in a pen declared fallow and showed visible sea-lice infestation.
Tesco described the footage as “extremely concerning” and said it had suspended the farm while it investigated with the supplier. The supermarket said all its own-brand suppliers must comply with assurance schemes such as Red Tractor and RSPCA Assured, as well as its internal welfare standards.
Bakkafrost Scotland said a “very small number of fish” were identified at the site five months ago and had been removed. The company said it had carried out a review of its procedures and introduced enhanced controls to prevent a recurrence. It added that fish health and welfare were “central” to its operations.
RSPCA Assured told the BBC it was investigating the allegations and could not comment further until inquiries were complete.
Sea lice are naturally occurring parasites that feed on the skin and blood of fish, with severe infestations capable of causing wounds and reducing the quality of farmed salmon.
